Brown Deer Waterworks

The Brown Deer Water Public Utility is a consecutive system to the Milwaukee Water Works. All water distributed by Brown Deer Water Utility is purchased from Milwaukee Water Works. The source water comes from Lake Michigan.

For comprehensive details about Milwaukee Water Works' source water and treatment processes, please visit their website at http://city.milwaukee.gov/water.

As water travels across land and through waterways, it naturally dissolves various substances. These substances are classified as contaminants. Surface water sources like Lake Michigan can be particularly vulnerable to contamination from both natural processes and human activities.

Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms)
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals, and nitrogen compounds)
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Organic chemical contaminants
• Radioactive substances

The EPA establishes regulations that limit contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safety. All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

The tables in this report show regulated substances detected in Milwaukee's water and Brown Deer's distribution system during 2017. It also includes all contaminants tested under the 2013 Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule: Stage 3 (UCMR-3). All contaminant levels fall within federal and state guidelines.

The tables provide each contaminant's name, maximum regulated level (MCL), public health goals (MCLG), average detected level, common sources, and potential health effects. The presence of a substance doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk - certain amounts of some chemicals are essential for health, while excessive amounts can be harmful.

1. Is Brown Deer's water safe to drink?
   Yes, Brown Deer's municipal water meets all EPA and state health standards. Regular testing ensures compliance with safety regulations.
2. What causes water hardness in Brown Deer?
   The Lake Michigan source water naturally contains dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness.
3. How often is Brown Deer's water tested?
   Water quality is monitored continuously at treatment facilities, with additional scheduled testing throughout the distribution system as required by regulations.
4. Should I use a water filter in Brown Deer?
   While not necessary for safety, some residents choose filters to address hardness or to remove trace contaminants for personal preference.